Gluten Free Bread Pudding: 4 Toppings That Make It Irresistible
What Is Bread Pudding?
Bread pudding is a beloved comfort dessert that transforms day-old bread into a luxurious treat by soaking it in a sweet custard mixture before baking. This humble dish has roots as a “no-waste” recipe, originating centuries ago as a practical way to use stale bread. Today, it’s cherished for its soft, custardy interior and slightly crisp top, the perfect balance of textures that creates an irresistible dessert.
Why Gluten-Free?
The demand for gluten free bread pudding has surged in recent years as awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity continues to grow. Creating gluten-free versions of classic comfort foods ensures that everyone can enjoy these beloved treats, regardless of dietary restrictions. For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, finding safe yet satisfying desserts can be challenging, which is where a well-crafted gluten free bread pudding recipe becomes invaluable.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Gluten-Free Bread Pudding?
Bread pudding has long been a cherished dessert born from humble beginnings, made with day-old bread and simple pantry staples. But as awareness of gluten sensitivities and celiac disease has grown, so has the demand for inclusive recipes that don’t compromise on comfort or flavor. That’s where gluten-free bread pudding steps in.
Whether you’re living gluten-free for medical reasons or personal wellness, this version delivers everything you love about traditional bread pudding: a soft, custard-rich interior, a golden-baked top, and layers of cozy flavor from vanilla, cinnamon, or nutmeg. The twist? It contains absolutely no gluten, meaning no wheat, barley, or rye in sight.
But gluten-free bread pudding isn’t just a substitute, it’s a standout. With the right choice of bread (think hearty gluten-free sourdough, brioche-style loaves, or cinnamon raisin), this dessert becomes a decadent showcase of how adaptable gluten-free baking can be. The texture holds beautifully, the flavors shine, and you’d never guess it’s gluten-free.
Plus, this recipe offers versatility. You can make it dairy-free with plant-based milks, turn it into a brunch-worthy bake with savory add-ins, or prepare it ahead of time for effortless entertaining. It’s a recipe that suits every table, whether it’s a cozy holiday dinner, a Sunday family brunch, or a weeknight treat.
In short, gluten-free bread pudding isn’t just about meeting dietary needs. It’s about crafting something rich, nostalgic, and so good that everyone will ask for seconds, gluten-free or not.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Core Ingredients
Creating the perfect gluten free bread pudding requires thoughtful ingredient selection:
Ingredients summary table
| Quantity | Ingredient | Almond, oat, or coconut milk works well for dairy-free |
| 4-6 cups, cubed | Gluten-free bread | Choose sturdy varieties like GF sourdough or brioche-style |
| 4 | Large eggs | Room temperature works best |
| 2½ cups | Milk (dairy or plant-based) | Can substitute coconut sugar for a less refined option |
| ¾ cup | Granulated sugar | Can substitute coconut sugar for less refined option |
| ¼ cup | Brown sugar | Adds depth of flavor and moisture |
| 2 teaspoons | Vanilla extract | Pure extract recommended |
| 1½ teaspoons | Cinnamon | Ground |
| ¼ teaspoon | Nutmeg | Freshly grated if possible |
| ¼ teaspoon | Salt | Enhances all flavors |
Optional Add-ins (½-1 cup total)
| Add-in | Suggestion |
| Dried fruit | Raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots |
| Fresh fruit | Diced apples, pears, berries |
| Chocolate | Semi-sweet or white chocolate chips |
| Nuts | Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds |
Bread Recommendations
The foundation of any good bread pudding is, naturally, the bread. For gluten free bread pudding, choose sturdy loaves that can absorb custard without disintegrating. Excellent options include:
- Gluten-free sourdough
- Gluten-free brioche-style bread
- Gluten-free challah
- Artisanal gluten-free sandwich loaves
Many grocery stores and bakeries now offer these specialty breads, making it easier than ever to create spectacular gluten free bread pudding. Avoid overly soft or crumbly varieties as they tend to fall apart during the soaking process.
Dairy-Free Options
For those requiring both gluten and dairy-free options, gluten free bread pudding adapts beautifully to these modifications:
- Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk
- Replace butter with plant-based alternatives or coconut oil
- For extra richness, try gluten free bread pudding with coconut milk, which adds a subtle tropical flavor
- When using condensed milk in recipes, look for dairy-free condensed coconut milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep & Toast Bread
- Cut your gluten-free bread into 1-inch cubes.
- Spread cubes on a baking sheet and toast at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until lightly dried but not browned.
- This crucial step prevents a soggy interior in your gluten free bread pudding by allowing the bread to better absorb the custard.
Make Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, whisking until incorporated.
- Continue whisking while slowly incorporating your preferred milk option.
Assemble & Bake
- Place toasted bread cubes in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Distribute optional ingredients like dried fruit or chocolate chips evenly throughout the bread cubes.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Let sit for 15-30 minutes, occasionally pressing bread down to ensure maximum absorption.
- Place in oven at 350°F and bake for 45-55 minutes until the pudding is set in the middle with a golden-brown top.
Rest & Serve
- Once out of the oven, let your gluten free bread pudding cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- This resting period helps the custard set completely, ensuring clean slices.
- Serve warm with your favorite sauce or topping.
Variations Gallery
Fruit-Forward
- For a delicious gluten-free apple bread pudding variation, incorporate 2 cups of diced apples and boost the cinnamon to 2 teaspoons.
- Pear-ginger: Combine diced pears with 1 tablespoon minced crystallized ginger
- Create a fall-inspired treat by substituting ½ cup of milk with pumpkin puree and incorporating a pumpkin pie spice blend.
Savory Twist
- cheddar: Add shredded cheddar cheese for a brunch option
- Mushroom-leek: Sauté mushrooms and leeks, reduce sugar, and add herbs for a dinner side dish
- Herb-olive oil: Replace some butter with olive oil and add fresh herbs for Mediterranean flair
Vegan
Create vegan gluten free bread pudding by:
- Replacing eggs with flax “eggs” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg)
- Using plant-based milk like almond or oat
- Substituting coconut sugar for granulated sugar
- Adding extra vanilla or spices to enhance flavor depth
Troubleshooting & Tips
Avoiding Sogginess
- Always use stale or toasted bread for the best, easy gluten free bread pudding
- Press bread gently into the custard mixture, but avoid compacting it too much
- Allow proper baking time, the center should be set but still moist
- Let rest before serving to allow the custard to fully set
Custard Ratio
- For softer pudding, increase the milk by ¼ cup
- For firmer texture, decrease milk by ¼ cup
- The best gluten free bread pudding has bread cubes that maintain their shape while absorbing ample custard
Make-Ahead/Freezing
- Overnight gluten free bread pudding: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
- Allow an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time if starting from refrigerated
- Freeze baked bread pudding for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
A warm slice of gluten-free bread pudding is pure comfort, but with the right toppings and pairings, it transforms into a dessert centerpiece worthy of any gathering. Whether you’re serving it straight from the oven or dressing it up for guests, here are delicious ways to elevate your gluten-free creation:
🔹 Toppings That Take It Over the Top
- Drizzle of Dairy-Free Caramel Sauce: A glossy caramel glaze adds sweetness and shine. Try a coconut milk-based version for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Bean Coconut Whip: A cloud of non-dairy whipped topping laced with real vanilla makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- Fresh Berries or Sautéed Apples: Balance the richness with bright raspberries, blueberries, or warm cinnamon apples.
- Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: For crunch and a nutty contrast to the creamy base.
🔹 Dessert Pairings
- A Scoop of Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: Cold meets warm in the most indulgent way; this classic combo never disappoints.
- Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee: The slight bitterness of coffee enhances the sweetness of the custard and caramel.
- Chai Tea or Cinnamon Rooibos: These cozy spices echo the flavors of the pudding, creating a beautifully spiced pairing.
🔹 Brunch Twist
Don’t save this dish for dessert! Serve it as a brunch centerpiece with plant-based yogurt, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a mimosa (or orange juice!) on the side.
Whether you keep it simple or go all out, these pairings highlight the warm, custardy heart of your gluten-free bread pudding, turning it into something truly unforgettable.
Gluten Free Bread Pudding: 4 Toppings That Make It Irresistible
Equipment
- Sharpserrated knife For Forcutting bread into even cubes.
- Bakingsheet To toast bread cubes until golden.
- argemixing bowl Perfect for preparing the custard mixture.
- Mediumwhisk Helps blend ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- 9×13-inchbaking dish (Glass or ceramic preferred) – Ensures even baking.
- Liquid measuring cup For milk and other liquid ingredients.
- Dry measuring cups and spoons For sugar, spices, and dry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4-6 cups cubed Gluten-free bread Choose sturdy varieties like GF sourdough or brioche-style
- 4 Large eggs Room temperature works best
- 2½ cups Milk dairy or plant-based, Almond, oat or coconut milk work well for dairy-free
- ¾ cup Granulated sugar Can substitute coconut sugar for less refined option
- ¼ cup Brown sugar Adds depth of flavor and moisture
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Pure extract recommended
- 1½ teaspoons Cinnamon Ground
- ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg Freshly grated if possible
- ¼ teaspoon Salt Enhances all flavors
Instructions
Prep & Toast Bread
- 1- Cut your gluten-free bread into 1-inch cubes.2- Spread cubes on a baking sheet and toast at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until lightly dried but not browned.3- This crucial step prevents a soggy interior in your gluten free bread pudding by allowing the bread to better absorb the custard.
Make Custard
- 1- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.2- Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, whisking until incorporated.3- Continue whisking while slowly incorporating your preferred milk option.
Assemble & Bake
- 1- Place toasted bread cubes in a greased 9×13 baking dish.2- Distribute optional ingredients like dried fruit or chocolate chips evenly throughout the bread cubes.3- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.4- Let sit for 15-30 minutes, occasionally pressing bread down to ensure maximum absorption.5-Place in oven at 350°F and bake for 45-55 minutes until the pudding is set in the middle with a golden-brown top.
Rest & Serve
- 1- Once out of the oven, let your gluten free bread pudding cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.2- This resting period helps the custard set completely, ensuring clean slices.3- Serve warm with your favorite sauce or topping.
FAQ
What’s the best bread for gluten free bread pudding?
A hearty, slightly stale loaf works best. Look for gluten-free breads with good structure—sourdough, brioche-style, or artisanal sandwich loaves. These resist falling apart when soaked in custard. Avoid overly soft or crumbly varieties. Some gluten-free bakeries now make specialty breads perfect for this purpose.
Can I make it ahead or freeze it?
Yes! You can assemble overnight gluten free bread pudding and chill it for up to 24 hours before baking, just cover tightly with plastic wrap. Already baked bread pudding freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through.
How do I make dairy free gluten free bread pudding?
Replace regular milk with your favorite plant-based alternative; almond, oat, or coconut milk work beautifully. Use coconut oil or plant-based butter in place of dairy butter. For extra richness, consider using coconut cream in part of your liquid measurement. The result is a decadent dairy free gluten free bread pudding that sacrifices nothing in flavor or texture.
Conclusion
This gluten free bread pudding beautifully balances nostalgic warmth with dietary inclusivity. Whether you’re making a classic version, experimenting with gluten free bread pudding with bourbon sauce, or creating a completely vegan variation, this versatile dessert adapts beautifully to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.
We’d love to hear how your gluten free bread pudding turned out! Leave a rating and share your creative twists or troubleshooting tips in the comments below. Did you try a fruit variation or create your unique flavor combination? Your experiences help our community grow!
Looking for more gluten-free dessert inspiration? Check out our complete guide to gluten-free baking or download our free gluten-free pantry essentials checklist to ensure you always have the right ingredients on hand for success.
